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Portsmouth’s £1m-plus capture handed chance to rejuvenate fortunes in stint away from Fratton

It’s not been a move which has gone well for the £1.25m signing from Sydney FC - but change at the League One leaders could well impact his fortunes.

Published: Tuesday, 29 September 2026 at 4:00 AM
Portsmouth’s £1m-plus capture handed chance to rejuvenate fortunes in stint away from Fratton
Key Things to Know
  • Hayden Matthews joined Bradford City on a season-long loan from Portsmouth in late August.
  • Bradford City manager Graham Alexander left the club to take charge of Preston North End.
  • Matthews, a £1.25m signing from Sydney FC, has not yet played a minute in league action.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Hayden Matthews could see an increase in playing time at Bradford City following the departure of manager Graham Alexander. The 22-year-old defender joined Bradford City on a season-long loan from Portsmouth in late August after previously signing from Sydney FC for £1.25m. Alexander's exit to Preston North End ended his nearly three-year tenure with the League One leaders.

Matthews has not played a single minute of league football for Bradford, featuring only in the EFL Trophy and Carabao Cup. Bradford's defensive stability limited his chances, but interim managers Mark Trueman and Colin Doyle could offer Matthews an opportunity to revitalize his loan spell.

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